Remember GDPR? It took almost everyone by surprise in 2018. Now another revolution is coming—EAA 2025. And most companies don't even know about it yet.
What is the EAA?
The EAA – European Accessibility Act – is a European directive that states:
digital services and products must be accessible to everyone.
This includes people with visual, hearing, or motor impairments.
This means, for example:
- that websites can be controlled using a keyboard
- that images have descriptions
- that videos have subtitles
- that no one is unnecessarily excluded
Czech law: when does it come into effect?
The EAA has been transposed into Czechia in Act No. 424/2023 Coll.
It will come into effect on June 28, 2025.
It introduces two main rules:
1. Everything new must be accessible immediately
From June 28, 2025, all newly launched websites, applications, and digital services must be accessible.
This applies to companies that, for example:
- launch a new e-shop or portal
- expand their digital offering
- introduce new software or electronic devices
2. Everything old must be accessible by 2030
Older websites and systems have a transition period until June 28, 2030.
By then, they must be brought into compliance with the law.
But beware:
Any changes to the website after June 28, 2025 will trigger an immediate accessibility obligation.
What counts as an "intervention"?
The law states:
"Any modification after June 28, 2025, requires compliance with accessibility requirements." This includes, for example:
- adding an article, product, or video
- changing the menu or navigation
- modifying the design or template
- new PDF or form
What does not count as an "intervention"?
- correcting typos
- changing hosting
- technical maintenance of the backend without affecting UX
Does this apply to you?
Most likely, yes.
The law does not only apply to websites and e-shops.
It also applies to a wide range of services, such as:
- electronic communications (telephones, emails, chats)
- banking, insurance, payment systems
- transport services and ticket machines
- software, mobile applications, and electronic devices
- e-books and e-readers, online marketplaces, and platforms
Exceptions? Only for micro-enterprises
Only companies that meet the following criteria are eligible for the exemption:
- they have less than 10 employees
- their annual turnover or balance sheet total does not exceed EUR 2 million
- and the digital service is not their main business activity
But beware:
Any change to the website or digital service after June 28, 2025 — such as a new article, product, or form—will void this exemption.
For example:
- A small e-shop whose main product is the website itself no longer qualifies for the exemption.
- Companies with a website "only as a supplement" (e.g., a catalog or business card) can only apply the exemption if they do not interfere with the website in any way.
What are the risks if you don't address this issue?
Compliance with the law will be monitored.
Not only by the Czech Trade Inspection Authority (ČOI), but also by other specialized authorities, depending on the type of digital service.
For example:
- The Czech Telecommunications Office (ČTÚ) for electronic communications
- The Waterways Administration for digital services in transport
- Municipal and regional authorities for certain local services
and other authorities according to the annex to the law
The law provides for specific penalties depending on the severity of the violation.
For example, the following penalties may be imposed:
- up to CZK 10 million for serious accessibility violations
- a ban on the sale of digital products
- an obligation to withdraw the service from the market
- public disclosure of the violation – which can seriously damage your reputation
Importantly, a violation can be assessed even in the case of a single, minor change that was not made in accordance with accessibility rules.
What does this mean?
- Accessibility will no longer be voluntary.
- Even a single banner or new product can trigger a legal obligation.
- By 2030, all systems must be accessible. Without exception.
But it's not just about the law
A barrier-free website is:
- faster
- clearer
- easier to find (SEO)
- more trustworthy for customers
- usable on mobile devices and in sunlight
These are advantages that are worth addressing before the law forces you to do so.
Summary
- EAA 2025 is a new law on the accessibility of digital products.
- It applies throughout the EU.
- It affects most companies that do business online.
- Exceptions are temporary and limited.
- One small change to a website can trigger a major obligation.
What now?
Accessibility is not just a law. It is the difference between whether your website works for everyone — or just for some.
We'll find out where you stand, what's okay, and what needs to be adjusted.
Clearly. Understandably. Without unnecessary costs.
- Does the law apply to you?
- Are you facing penalties?
- Are you losing customers unnecessarily?
You'll get specific answers. And a clear plan for what to do next.
Start now – while there is still time to act without stress.